Symptoms of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma vary, depending on where the cancer is located.

The first sign of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma may be a painless swelling of the neck, underarm, or groin. Swelling may also occur in the soft tissues of the arm or leg if the lymphoma has developed outside of a lymph node, as sometimes happens. If the lymphoma is present in an internal organ, such as the stomach or bowel, symptoms will relate to disruption of the organ’s function, such as gastric pain, abdominal pain, or intestinal obstruction.

Swollen Lymph Nodes

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Abdominal swelling, indigestion, or stomach pain may occur if the cancer is in the abdominal lymph tissue, blocks the intestines, or has damaged the abdominal lining and allowed fluid to collect.

]]>Coughing]]> or shortness of breath may occur if the cancer starts in the chest. This can put pressure on the windpipe. If a tumor in this area compresses the superior vena cava, swelling in the head and arms may also occur.

As a greater number of cancer cells develop, general symptoms may include:

• Unexplained fever
• Night sweats
• Fatigue
• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss (without dieting)
• Itchy skin (severe), especially after showering